Just months after the death of Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, health officials are reporting an increase in Hantavirus – a rare but serious infectious disease spread by rodents that contributed to Betsy’s death.  

The couple were found dead in their Santa Fe home on February 26 alongside one of their dogs, Zinna. Medical investigator Dr Heather Jarrell confirmed it’s likely that Gene was alive for up to one week after Betsy’s death. The two-time Oscar-winning actor’s pacemaker recorded its last event on 17 February, while Betsy’s last known activity took place on 11 February, when she was last seen. Gene died of hypertensive cardiovascular disease, while Betsy died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome.A physician at the medical practice where Betsy sought help revealed that she had reached out for medical assistance a few days prior to her passing, but initially did not show symptoms of Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome.

The disease often begins with flu-like symptoms such as fever, fatigue and muscle aches and can rapidly progress to a severe respiratory illness marked by coughing, shortness of breath and fluid accumulation in the lungs.

While it can not be passed from human to human, the illness is contracted by inhaling particles from infected rodent faeces, urine or nests, or touching contaminated surfaces.

Humans can also contract hantavirus from being bitten or scratched by a rodent carrying the virus. Contaminated food and water are also a concern.

Now health officials are saying that cases of the deadly illness are one the rise in the States. It’s unclear how many cases have been recorded across the country this year, however, three people died of hantavirus in the rural California town of Mammoth Lakes in the spring. The county’s public health officer calling the deaths “tragic and alarming.”

Five cases have also been reported so far this year in Arizona, according to state health officials, as well as four cases reported this year in Northern Nevada, two in Douglas County, one in Washoe County and one in Lander County.

Dr. Tom Boo, Mono County Public Health Officer said he was worried about cases so early in the year, when they are more typical in late spring and summer.

He said: “We believe that deer mouse numbers are high this year in Mammoth (and probably elsewhere in the Eastern Sierra). An increase in indoor mice elevates the risk of Hantavirus exposure. Therefore, it is crucial to take precautions and follow the prevention steps.”

Officials advised taking care when cleaning out areas such as sheds, barns, trailers, garages, and cabins where deer mice have nested or left droppings. If exposed, early detection and prompt medical treatment can greatly improve the chances of recovery.